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Optical Engineer Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

Vortex Optics

NPD Project Manager

Barneveld, WI · On-site

Vortex Optics is looking for a talented individual to join our New Product Development (NPD) team ... Aid engineers, as necessary in engineering and design of technical aspects of new products. * Test ...

Vortex Optics

NPD Project Manager

Barneveld, WI · On-site

Vortex Optics is looking for a talented individual to join our New Product Development (NPD) team ... Aid engineers, as necessary in engineering and design of technical aspects of new products. * Test ...

Vortex Optics

NPD Project Manager

Barneveld, WI · On-site

Vortex Optics is looking for a talented individual to join our New Product Development (NPD) team ... Aid engineers, as necessary in engineering and design of technical aspects of new products. * Test ...

Vortex Optics

NPD Project Manager

Barneveld, WI · On-site

Vortex Optics is looking for a talented individual to join our New Product Development (NPD) team ... Aid engineers, as necessary in engineering and design of technical aspects of new products. * Test ...

Ametek

R&D Scientist

Madison, WI · On-site

Collaborate with sales, marketing, applications, and engineering teams to define next-generation instruments * Participate in cross-functional design reviews involving mechanical, optical, and ...

Ametek

R&D Scientist

Madison, WI · On-site

Collaborate with sales, marketing, applications, and engineering teams to define next-generation instruments * Participate in cross-functional design reviews involving mechanical, optical, and ...

Infleqtion

Staff Quantum Physicist

Madison, WI · On-site

... engineering tradeoffs. * Own critical systems through validation, troubleshooting, performance ... PhD in atomic, optical, AMO, quantum physics, or a related field, or equivalent professional ...

Infleqtion

Staff Quantum Physicist

Madison, WI

... engineering tradeoffs. * Own critical systems through validation, troubleshooting, performance ... PhD in atomic, optical, AMO, quantum physics, or a related field, or equivalent professional ...

Infleqtion

Staff Quantum Sensor Physicist

Madison, WI · On-site

Ability to work effectively with engineering teams on optical, mechanical, electrical, software, firmware, vacuum, laser, controls, packaging, and instrument-operation challenges * Professional-level ...

Vortex Optics

Front End Web Developer

Barneveld, WI · On-site

Vortex Optics is looking for a full-stack Developer that is proficient in both front-end and back-end development and is passionate about using technology to create a rare experience for our ...

Brandon Eyes

Customer Service Optician

Middleton, WI · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Keeping the optical space looking clean, neat, and welcoming * Doing inventory, ordering, sending, and receiving shipments If these sound like you, please apply! - You're a natural problem solver and ...

Vortex Optics

Front End Web Developer

Barneveld, WI · On-site

Vortex Optics is looking for a full-stack Developer that is proficient in both front-end and back-end development and is passionate about using technology to create a rare experience for our ...

Vortex Optics

Front End Web Developer

Barneveld, WI · On-site

Vortex Optics is looking for a full-stack Developer that is proficient in both front-end and back-end development and is passionate about using technology to create a rare experience for our ...

Brandon Eyes

Customer Service Optician

Madison, WI · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Keeping the optical space looking clean, neat, and welcoming * Doing inventory, ordering, sending, and receiving shipments If these sound like you, please apply! - You're a natural problem solver and ...

Bruker

Title Manufacturing Technician

Madison, WI · On-site

This position will be responsible for mechanical, optical and/or electrical component assembling ... This position will work closely with final system QA/QC and manufacturing engineering teams to ...

UNAVAILABLE

Manufacturing Technician

Madison, WI

This position will be responsible for mechanical, optical and/or electrical component assembling ... This position will work closely with final system QA/QC and manufacturing engineering teams to ...

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Showing results 41-60

All JobsOptical Engineer JobsOptical Engineer Jobs in Madison, WI

Optical Engineer information

See Madison, WI salary details

$83.6K

$144.7K

$169.8K

How much do optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer in Madison, WI is $144,728.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $130,000.00 and $168,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Optical Engineer vs Optical Technician?

AspectOptical EngineerOptical Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in optical engineering, physics, or related fieldAssociate's degree or technical certification in optics or related field
Work EnvironmentDesign, development, and testing of optical systems in labs or R&D settingsAssembly, alignment, and maintenance of optical equipment in manufacturing or labs
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, tech companies, aerospace, defenseManufacturers, optical labs, production facilities

Optical Engineers focus on designing and developing optical systems, requiring higher education and involved in R&D. Optical Technicians handle the assembly, alignment, and maintenance of optical devices, often with technical certifications. Both roles are essential in the optics industry but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

What does an optical engineer do?

An optical engineer oversees the scientific application of optics and light in an industrial, research, or manufacturing setting. As an optical engineering professional, your responsibilities include the design of instruments and products that rely on optics, from space telescopes to DVD players. You also may work in research and development to create new technologies and applications for optical science. Your specific duties and the level of education you need varies depending on the field in which you work

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an optical engineer?

To thrive as an Optical Engineer, you need a solid background in physics, optics, and mathematics, typically supported by a degree in optical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with optical design software (such as Zemax or Code V), CAD tools, and laboratory equipment is commonly required, along with relevant certifications like SPIE or OSA membership. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for success in this field. These skills and qualifications are vital for designing precise optical systems, solving complex technical challenges, and collaborating on innovative projects.

What are some typical challenges optical engineers face when working on new product development?

Optical Engineers involved in new product development often encounter challenges such as balancing optical performance with manufacturability and cost constraints. They must collaborate closely with mechanical and electrical engineers to ensure system integration meets all technical requirements. Additionally, they need to troubleshoot issues that arise during prototyping, such as unexpected aberrations or alignment difficulties, and iterate designs rapidly to meet project timelines. Effective communication and creative problem-solving are essential in overcoming these hurdles.

What does an optical engineer do?

An optical engineer designs and develops devices and systems that use the properties of light, such as lenses, lasers, microscopes, and fiber optics. They use principles of physics and engineering to solve problems related to the generation, transmission, and detection of light. Optical engineers work in a variety of industries, including telecommunications, aerospace, healthcare, and manufacturing. Their work often involves research, testing, and improving optical components and systems to enhance performance and efficiency.

Are optical engineers in high demand?

Optical engineers are in high demand due to their expertise in designing and developing optical systems for industries such as telecommunications, healthcare, and defense. The field offers strong job growth prospects, especially for those with skills in laser technology, photonics, and optical design software. Continuous advancements in technology contribute to sustained employment opportunities for optical engineers.

What do optical engineers work on?

Optical engineers design, develop, and test optical systems and components such as lenses, lasers, and imaging devices. They work on projects related to telecommunications, medical instruments, imaging systems, and laser technology, often using tools like CAD software and requiring knowledge of physics and optics principles.
More about Optical Engineer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Engineer jobs in Madison, WI?

The most popular types of Optical Engineer jobs in Madison, WI are:

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For Optical Engineer jobs in Madison, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Optical Engineer jobs in Madison, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Engineer jobs in Madison, WI are:

What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Optical Engineer jobs?

Cities near Madison, WI with the most Optical Engineer job openings:

Optical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Engineer job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $144,728 per year, or $69.6 per hour.

Quality Engineer/CMM Programmer

Latitude Corp.

Verona, WI • On-site

Other

Life, Retirement

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Description
Latitude Corp.
We are looking for a Quality Engineer/CMM Programmer to join our 100% EMPLOYEE-OWNED team.
Latitude Corp. offers challenging and rewarding career opportunities in precision metal manufacturing where we make the impossible possible. We embrace problem solvers, creativity and innovation. With clean, climate-controlled facilities, we offer comfortable working environments. Our customers span a variety of industries, including US military and defense. We are proud of the work we do and we believe that our employees are the key to our success. That's why we're committed to providing our team with the support, resources, and opportunities they need to succeed.
Minimum Job Requirements
  • Working Hours - full-time (40+ hours/week) employment.
  • Personal Traits - Good communication skills with positive teamwork attitude.
  • Good organization skills and ability to multi-task and trouble shoot.
  • Conscientious attention to detail and accuracy.
  • Knowledge - must be able to read a print to detail.
  • Experience with MS Office Suite, email, ERP, statistical, and other business software.

Job Duties and Responsibilities
  • Responsible for assisting the department manager with all department operations.
  • Responsible for reviewing and analyzing data in a timely and accurate manner and providing reports of the results.
  • Authority to pass/fail parts based on customer requirements
  • Authorized to audit processes and provide corrective actions
  • Authorized to develop and implement quality control procedures and protocols.
  • Authority to interface with various departments at Latitude with regards to meeting quality standards, CMM programming, outputs, and estimation of work effort.
  • Responsible for CMM and other measurement programming that determines product conformity to customer requirements.

Job Duties
Quality Engineer
  • Assist Quality Manager in data analysis of key process indicators.
  • Lead or assist investigations into process or product Quality issues, determine root and contributing causes, drive resolution, assess effectiveness, and ensure the investigation and any new work process or quality is documented.
  • Regularly measure process capability across the plant. Use the raw and trend data to drive process improvements.
  • Assist in the oversight of Quality Technicians; including training, work allocation and problem resolution.
  • Perform FAIs and PPAPs
  • Serve as a mentor to other Quality personnel as it relates to the use of a variety of measuring equipment to include CMMS, calipers, micrometers, optical comparators, and other Quality metrology instruments.
  • Create Certificates of Compliance for products and maintain records in accordance with customer requirements.
  • Assist quality team with additional customer requirements as necessary (Source Inspection, Customer Audits, Capability Studies, ETC).
  • Develop and implement quality control procedures and protocols.
  • Understand the Quality Policy and the company's business operations manual.
  • Work safely and ensure hazardous conditions are eliminated.
  • Follow company safety procedures.
  • Operate equipment within the parameters of the Company's safety standards while meeting the customer's quality requirements.
  • Work on Continuous Improvement projects to meet department objective

CMM Programmer
  • Program CMM instruments using Calypso and PC-DIMS with and without a Solid model.
  • Operate a variety of CMM instruments including Zeiss and Hexagon.
  • Perform routine and preventive maintenance of Zeiss and Hexagon CMM instruments such as Zeiss and Hexagon instruments.
  • Participate in the annual calibration of the CMMs and resolve and/or investigate any out of tolerance conditions identified.
  • Execute check fixture design and validation.
  • Other ad hoc duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Quality Engineer
  • Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills
  • Meticulous attention to detail
  • Excellent leadership skills.
  • Ability to assess operational requirements and to plan and organize workflow and schedules.
  • Ability to read blueprints, interpret GD&T, and calculate allowed tolerances on measured parts.
  • Knowledge of ISO 9000 and/or AS9100.

CMM Programmer
  • Proficient in CMM Calypso and PC-DMIS programming.
  • Experience in CAD, SolidWorks preferred.

Education and Experience
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering, science or mathematics.
  • Experience working in metal manufacturing environment desired
  • Experience with CMM Calypso and PC-DMIS

Why Should You Choose Latitude Corp?
  • We are a rapidly growing employee-owned manufacturing company
  • Growth Opportunities
  • Training Available
  • Weekly Pay
  • Clean and Climate Controlled Work Environment
  • Company Paid Life Insurance
  • Company Paid Short-Term, and Long-Term Disability
  • Work on products that support the US Military and National Defense
  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan
  • 401K Plan with 4% Company Match

Latitude Corp is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. This company considers candidates regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

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